Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
Abia State has taken a major step toward becoming a globally competitive manufacturing hub, as the government on Tuesday flagged off a strategic programme to boost quality standards and productivity among small businesses.
The Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, said the initiative underscores Governor Alex Otti’s deliberate push to transform Abia — particularly Aba — into a globally respected manufacturing brand.
Speaking at the launch of the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSME) Competitiveness and Industrial Productivity Programme (MCIPP) Quality Assurance Assessors Training at Ogbonnaya Onu Polytechnic, Aba, Ajagba described the move as a bold shift from mere production to global-standard manufacturing.
He said the training of Quality Assurance Assessors is central to the state’s plan to reposition Aba as a centre of excellence in fashion, garment, and leather production across Nigeria and Africa.
Ajagba stressed that the Otti administration is committed to creating a business-friendly environment through improved infrastructure, policy support, access to finance, and strict quality standardisation.
He commended development partners, including Ethnocentrique Limited and the Mastercard Foundation, for their technical support, urging participants to uphold discipline and integrity in applying their training.
Also speaking, MCIPP Team Lead, Adedapo Conde, described the programme as a key driver in strengthening Abia’s skills ecosystem and positioning Aba as a global hub for skills export.
He noted that the initiative would deepen engagement with MSMEs while enhancing their competitiveness in both local and international markets.
The event, attended by top government officials and industry stakeholders, featured the presentation of CAC and SMEDAN certificates to business owners, further reinforcing the state’s commitment to formalising and empowering small enterprises.
